Raymond Cole

Raymond S. Cole, 65 of Lima died Thursday morning March 10, 2011 at 10:14 a.m. at St. Rita’s Hospice. He was born on July 11, 1945 in Lima to Robert G. and Elenor M (Giberson) Cole and they preceded him in death. On May 3, 1968 he married Joan M. McIntyre in Bethlehem, PA and she survives him in Lima.

Mr. Cole is also survived by a son: Christopher M. (Diane) Cole of Elida, one grandson: Camron Raymond Cole, his brother: Richard G. (Betty) Cole of Bluffton and a sister: Janis (David) Betts of Bath Township.

Raymond was a 1963 graduate of Lima Senior High School, he was the owner/operator of Cole’s Sohio Service Station, Lima, he was also employed as a cabinetmaker at Formcraft. He retired after 29 years as a steelworker. He was an Army veteran serving during the Viet Nam conflict from 1965 until 1967.

Mr. Cole was an avid automobile and motorcycle enthusiast, was a big NASCAR fan of Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. He loved spending time with his family and especially his grandson Camron who was the most important part of his life!

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, March15, 2011 at Siferd-Orians Funeral Home, with Deacon Tom Niese officiating. Military Rites will be conducted by the VFW Post 1275. Burial will be at a later date in Allentown Cemetery.

Visitation will be Monday, March 14 from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at Siferd-Orians Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, make contributions to St. Rita’s Hospice or to the Salvation Army.

Condolences can be made at www.siferd-oriansfuneralhome.com